Reduce storage losses of round bales

Krishona Martinson, Extension Equine Specialist12014

Large round bale

Hay waste can occur during both storage and feeding. Research has shown outdoor hay storage losses of round bales can range from 5 to 35 percent depending on precipitation, storage site, and original condition of the bale. For example, the outer 4" layer of a 6' diameter round bale contains about 25 percent of the total bale volume and is most likely to be damaged by weather if stored improperly or unprotected.

There are a number of techniques that minimize outdoor storage losses of round bales:

Bale or buy a dense bale as the bales will sag less and have less surface area in contact with the ground.

Store bales on a well-drained surface. A well-drained, 4" to 6" coarse rock base will minimize bottom spoilage, as will storing on wood pallets.

Never store bales under trees.

Store round bales end-to-end when storing outside. Position round bales as tightly as possible in long lines on a well-drained site. If more than one line of bales is needed, space adjacent lines at least 3 feet apart. This will increase air flow and allows sunlight to penetrate the bales. In a South Dakota study, dry matter losses of round bales were 4 percent for round bales stacked individually and less than 1 percent for round bales stacked end-to-end.

When storing round bales outside without cover, never stack round bales in a pyramid. Stacking tends to trap moisture and limits drying action from sunlight and wind. A South Dakota study reported dry matter losses of round bales stacked in pyramids at more than 10 percent after one year of storage.

Storage losses are usually reduced by approximately two-thirds with indoor storage and by one-half with good plastic covering (i.e. a tarp) outdoors.